MENDOCINO NATIONAL FOREST, Calif. – Officials said Friday night that the largest of 15 lightning-caused fires on the Mendocino National Forest was nearing full containment.
The Daves Fire remained at 300 acres Friday night, with containment having more than doubled to reach 70 percent during the day, according to a forest report.
It was found on the Grindstone Ranger District Wednesday afternoon following hundreds of lightning strikes earlier in the week.
Late Friday, approximately 670 personnel were committed to the incident, which since Friday morning has been under the command of the Northern California Interagency Team 2.
Officials said fire crews made good progress on Friday, continuing to construct and strengthen line and initiating mop up to 50 feet within the fire perimeter.
Steep slopes and poor access continue to challenge firefighters. Additionally, severe drought conditions exist across California, resulting in drier, more receptive fuels and high potential for increased fire intensity and a faster rate of spread, officials said.
The fire has resulted in the temporary closure of County Road 55/ Forest Road M4 southwest of Paskenta, including Black Bear Camp, and Forest Road M9 from County Road 313 west to Log Springs. Officials said a temporary flight restriction is in effect for the area around the fire.
Forest officials said the incident is on track to be fully contained on Monday, June 17.